Algebra 2 or Geometry?

I'm planning my classes for the next year and I'm confused about whether I should take Algebra 2 or Geometry. Can anyone share their experiences on which one is better to take first and why? Also, does it matter for college admissions which one I take first?

Hello! It's pretty common for students to be unsure which math class to take next. The decision between Algebra 2 and Geometry usually depends on your school's curriculum and your personal preferences. Typically, students take Geometry after completing Algebra 1, which provides a more solid foundation for understanding shapes, angles, and proofs. However, some students take Algebra 2 first, building on the algebra skills they learned in Algebra 1 and then moving on to Geometry.

If your school doesn't have a specific sequence, think about your strengths and interests in math. If you found Algebra 1 enjoyable and felt comfortable with the material, you might want to proceed to Algebra 2. On the other hand, if Algebra 1 was a struggle, taking Geometry and giving yourself more time to develop your algebra skills might be a better choice. Geometry usually involves more visual concepts, while Algebra 2 continues to build on abstract and analytical skills.

As for college admissions, the order in which you take these classes usually doesn't matter. Colleges want to see that you've challenged yourself with a rigorous course load, and they're more interested in the overall progression of your math courses rather than the specific order. As long as you take both classes and continue to advance in math throughout high school, you'll be in good shape for college admissions.

Ultimately, consider discussing your options with your school counselor, math teacher, or even upperclassmen who have taken both classes to get a better understanding of the content, difficulty, and workload. Good luck, and I hope this helps!